The new writing portion of the SATs may be controversial, but it is a good predictor of just how well a freshman will do in college, according to multiple studies.

In fact, researchers at the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business, who analyzed data from separate studies conducted by the College Board and the University of California, report that with each 100-point increase in SAT writing scores, first-year students earn GPAs that are, on average, .07 points higher, and 18 points higher in freshman English classes, and they earn .54 more credit hours.

Good writing is key to literacy. And literacy is like the amino acid of education: It is the building block upon which all other studies are possible. That link between literacy and writing and writing and success is why we at Learning A-Z developed the Writing A-Z leveled writing program, because all students deserve to be clear and effective communicators.